With the winter months comes shorter days, holiday stress, irregular eating patterns and low energy levels. Getting the right amount of nutrients by following the recommendations of Canada’s Food Guide can help you feel better inside and out.The dark winter months make it harder to get some of the essential vitamins like Vitamin D. If you are suffering from low energy during the winter, it may be caused by a nutrient deficiency. Known as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D is important for bone health as well as the prevention of chronic disease. Vitamin D is obtained through both diet and sun exposure and is found in oily fish, including salmon, tuna, sardines and herring. It is also in fortified products such as milk, soymilk and margarine. B complex vitamins are involved in energy metabolism from carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Foods such as potatoes, whole grain cereals, nuts and seeds contain B complex vitamins.

The vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables are key to maintaining long-term health. Even though some fresh fruits and vegetables are not readily available in the winter, frozen fruits and vegetables have just as much, if not more, nutrients.

“As the days get shorter, energy levels change as people adjust their eating and exercise habits,” says Maria Thomas, a registered dietitian based in Vancouver. “Certain nutrients like vitamin D are also tough to get in the winter because of reduced daylight and taking a multivitamin supplement can help one get through the winter months.” A multivitamin supplement like Centrum Select is formulated with 400 IU of vitamin D to help promote overall health.

Whether it is a hectic holiday schedule or less sunshine, getting five to ten servings of fruits and vegetables, eating a balanced diet, and taking a multivitamin supplement are important factors in maintaing your health this winter.

Credit: www.newscanada.com

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